About to leave and I notice I've lost the nut that holds in the crossways bolt securing the front of the gas tank (!). That explains the rattle I've been hearing. Repairman at the service area is looking for a match...

Trip on the whole was pleasant... I got a little wet and my backside is sore, but I arrived safely and the bike is in good order.*

The asterisk* is because I ran into a bunch of minor mechanical issues, which I'll write up on the UCE board. Nothing that prevented me from finishing the trip.

I tested my rain gear - over pants and the waterproof lining of my mesh jacket. Neither was waterproof, but I got much less wet than I normally would. If I'd fastened everything correctly I would have been much closer to dry.

I learned that pipes are hot (and melted part of a glove finger - hooray for protective gear).

I learned more about what spare parts and tools are good to have on hand. I had some of what I needed, but not all.

And I got to experience a rosy dusk between rain showers as I rode over the bridge spanning Kent Narrows on the Eastern Shore. Those are the moments that make up for all the rain and the hassle!